Sepsis

Sepsis

Definition

Sepsis is a severe infection in the body and bloodstream that can lead to shock, a reaction caused by lack of blood flow in the body.

What is going on in the body?

Sepsis can occur when a person has a severe infection. The infection may start in any part of the body, but usually starts with pneumonia, a serious inflammation in the lungs, or a urinary infection. Sepsis can also occur after an abdominal infection such as appendicitis.

As the infection worsens, bacteria may enter the bloodstream. When this happens, toxins produced by the bacteria can make the blood vessels dilate, causing severe low blood pressure. This is known as septic shock, a medical emergency that is fatal if not treated promptly and effectively.

Risks

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Septic shock can occur with any severe infection. It is more common with severe abdominal infections or lung infections such as pneumonia. People with an immune system that is not working well are especially prone to septic shock. This includes people with AIDS or those getting cancer treatment. The very young and very old are also prone to sepsis.

Prevention

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Preventing or treating the initial infection can prevent sepsis. Not all infections lead to sepsis.

Diagnosed

How is the infection diagnosed?

The diagnosis is based on a physical examination and a history of severe infection. Sepsis is also suspected when a person has low blood pressure and a fast heart rate. Blood cultures will often show growth of bacteria, confirming the diagnosis.

Long Term Effects

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Generally, people with sepsis will either get rid of the underlying infection or die. There are few long-term effects related to sepsis. In some cases, the brain or kidneys may be permanently damaged.

Other Risks

What are the risks to others?

Although sepsis is caused by infections, these infections are usually not contagious.

Treatments

What are the treatments for the infection?

Sepsis is treated with two or more powerful intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and medications to restore normal blood pressure.

If the person is sick enough to be treated in the intensive care unit of a hospital, heart and lung monitors may be placed inside the person through the arteries and veins to measure blood pressure and other vital signs. Some people may need a ventilator (a breathing machine) to help them breathe.

Sepsis will usually improve as the infection heals. In some cases surgery, is needed to remove or drain an abscess or other tissue.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of the treatments?

People with sepsis are vulnerable to allergic and other reactions to medications, and to further infections from all the invasive devices that are used.

After Treatment

What happens after treatment for the infection?

The person is monitored to make sure blood pressure returns to normal and the sepsis resolves.

Monitor

How is the infection monitored?

The person will be monitored with physical examinations and blood tests. Cultures will be taken of blood, urine, or other fluids to check for continuing infection.